The nurse observes the following rhythm of a client on the telemetry unit.

Which action should be completed first?
Report the findings and anticipate a medical prescription for amiodarone
Initiate a rapid response call and increase the monitor's sensitivity
Start compressions and prepare for defibrillation
Establish unresponsiveness and check the carotid pulse
The Correct Answer is D
A. Reporting the findings and anticipating a prescription for amiodarone may be necessary later, but the first step is to assess the patient's immediate condition (unresponsiveness, pulse status, etc.).
B. Although increasing monitor sensitivity and initiating a rapid response call might be helpful, these actions come after assessing the patient’s condition. If the patient is in distress or unresponsive, the nurse needs to check for a pulse and intervene right away.
C. This is a crucial action if the patient is unresponsive and pulseless (cardiac arrest). If the patient is found to be unresponsive and pulseless, starting chest compressions immediately and preparing for defibrillation is the next step. However, the first action is to check for pulse and responsiveness.
Why it's incorrect: Compressions and defibrillation are correct actions if the patient is pulseless, but before taking these steps, the nurse must assess the patient for responsiveness and check the carotid pulse. Starting CPR and preparing defibrillation without verifying the patient's condition could delay appropriate care.
D. Checking responsiveness and pulse is the most immediate and critical action because VT may be asymptomatic or cause deterioration, including cardiac arrest. Once pulse and responsiveness are determined, appropriate interventions (such as defibrillation or CPR) can be initiated quickly.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. The 20-gauge catheter in the right wrist is not ideal for blood transfusions, as wrist veins are smaller and may be less optimal for high-flow transfusions.
B. An 18-gauge catheter is appropriate for blood transfusions, but the catheter is currently in use for potassium chloride, which would need to be discontinued. The best choice is a separate site.
C. A 22-gauge catheter is not large enough for blood transfusion; it may cause hemolysis or slow the transfusion rate.
D. The 20-gauge catheter in the right forearm is an appropriate size for a blood transfusion and is currently infusing normal saline, which does not interfere with the blood transfusion.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Weighing the client provides an important baseline for monitoring fluid retention and determining the effectiveness of treatments such as diuretics. Rapid changes in weight can indicate worsening heart failure and fluid accumulation.
B. Inserting an indwelling catheter is not indicated unless there are concerns about urinary retention or output, which are not the priority here.
C. Drawing blood for chemistry studies and a CBC is important but it does not directly address the immediate concern of fluid retention and worsening heart failure.
D. Administering furosemide may be necessary depending on the client's condition, but first establishing a baseline weight is important before making further treatment decisions.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
